It has been said that writing a book is like giving birth – to a story, to characters with personalities, to dialogue, to scenes, to action – all resulting in a climactic end – the birth of a new book lovingly presented to the world. And along this same line, the author is the creator, giving life to this new creation through the written word.

Never before have I read anything quite like Facundo Raganato's The Author or The Characters' Short Living Story. It is truly a work of literary genius.

The author captures the essence of his own role in the literary process, along with the roles of his characters and even the reader, who keep the characters alive as long as he or she is immersed in the story. It all begins much like Genesis – darkness, nothingness and infinite space – no boundaries open to interpretation by all three parties – author, characters and reader.

The stage is set as six characters huddle in this void, each wondering who they are, how they got there and what will happen next. Do they have a past; do they have a future? The author takes the reader along for the ride as they embark on their journey – each with differing personalities and perspectives that compel them to think, act and react in specific ways.

It is essentially a journey of discovery and self-discovery that tests their true worth through various challenges. In the process, the author determines their value to the overall story – killing off some; saving others. Although this could be viewed as a merciless act – and some characters actually view it as such – it is vital to the refinement of the overall story.

At the same time the author makes use of a multitude of allegories. An allegory is a literary device wherein there is more than one meaning. In this case, the author uses his character's words and actions to reveal deeper spiritual truths.

This truly one-of-a-kind work is also full of metaphors: author/creator/God; characters/humans; fiction/reality; characters' struggles/human struggles; overcoming challenges/life's challenges; faith in the author/faith in self/faith in a creator; the characters' search for truth/wisdom in the real world/eventual enlightenment; and on it goes.

And as a reader, I could not help relating all of these to both the physical and spiritual worlds in which we live out our lives. While I note “God,” this spiritual journey that the characters go on could easily relate to any spiritual belief and the truths they hold.

As you read this book, it is necessary to take your time – to fully understand the symbolism hidden within its pages. For instance, the over-riding importance of going with, instead of without in our search for understanding and expansion of consciousness. The value of meditation and the ability to create one's own story not just on paper but also in life.

This is one book that you will want to read more than once to ensure that its universal truths are instilled in your mind – which as this reader sees it, is more important than the actual mechanics of the story that the author has created. We all have much to learn from Raganato's work. If we could only put the lessons into practice, our world would be a much better place.

To pick up your copy of The Author orThe Characters' Short Living Story, go HERE.go